US Forces Seize Russian-Flagged Oil Tanker Marinera
In an international operation involving multiple nations, US military forces have seized the Russian-flagged oil tanker, Marinera, in the North Atlantic. The tanker, previously known as Bella 1, was reportedly attempting to transport oil from Iran and Venezuela, allegedly in violation of US sanctions. The seizure followed an extensive pursuit that began in the Caribbean Sea and ended in the waters to the northwest of Scotland.
Background and Context
The Marinera was part of a so-called 'shadow fleet' that has been under surveillance for its suspected illegal petroleum transport. The vessel was sanctioned by the United States in 2024. According to Sky News' Data and Forensics team, the tanker had been attempting to evade American seizure for over two weeks after a failed attempt to load oil at a Venezuelan port.
Key Developments
The seizure was coordinated by the US Justice Department, the Department of Homeland Security, and the US military. The US European Command confirmed the operation, stating that a federal court had issued a warrant for the tanker's capture. According to The Guardian, the UK Ministry of Defence confirmed it had provided military assistance in the operation, with the RAF offering additional surveillance and the navy providing refuelling support.
The US forces reportedly tried to board the Marinera on several occasions. However, the crew declined to let American officers aboard and changed the vessel's course. Photos obtained by RT showed a military helicopter attempting to land on the tanker.
Reactions and Implications
The operation has sparked a wave of international reactions. Russia condemned the seizure, describing it as an illegal interception
in international waters. Russia has demanded the US ensure humane treatment for the Russians onboard the Marinera. Austria's former top diplomat, Karin Kneissl, deemed the US's seizure of the tanker a violation of international law.
On the other hand, the operation has raised concerns among NATO and Nordic-Baltic governments about dark fleet vessels and their crews. The Marinera's ownership was just transferred to Burevestmarin LLC, a Russian company, according to Windward maritime intelligence analyst Michelle Wiese Bockmann.
Conclusion
The seizure of the Marinera, coupled with the detention of Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro, marks a significant escalation in the US's enforcement of its sanctions against nations like Venezuela and Iran. Meanwhile, the tanker's crew members face potential criminal charges for their frantic efforts to avoid apprehension,
according to US attorney general Pam Bondi. With the Marinera now in US custody, international attention will likely focus on the treatment of the vessel's crew and the potential legal and diplomatic fallout from this high-stakes operation.